April is Distracted Driving Month
How Driver Inattention Can Prove Deadly
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. It is designed to bring awareness to the deadly problem of inattentive driving. Research shows that thousands of people are killed in distracted driving accidents each year. Motorists can expect to see increased law enforcement and patrols to crack down on the growing epidemic.
At Denlea & Carton, LLP, we provide dedicated representation for individuals who have been injured in distracted driving accidents in White Plains, NY, and throughout all of Westchester County, NY. Our skilled legal team will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
What Is Distracted Driving Month?
Distracted Driving Awareness Month was designed to bring attention to the growing safety issue related to inattentive driving. The initiative takes place each April and is usually done in conjunction with law enforcement campaigns to prevent the dangerous activity. According to the National Safety Council, at least eight people die each day in distracted driving accidents.
Why Do People Observe Distracted Driving Month?
National Distracted Driving Awareness Month is observed in order to bring awareness to the problem and to help motorists learn how to avoid distractions. Regulatory agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) remind drivers that distracted driving not only encompasses texting and cell phone use while driving, but also any forms of distraction such as talking, applying makeup, changing the radio station, and eating.
How Many People Are Injured or Killed in Distracted Driving Accidents?
NHTSA indicates that 3,522 people died in distracted driving accidents nationwide in 2021. An astounding 8% of fatal crashes involved distracted driving during the same year. Tragically, over 32,000 people died in distracted driving crashes from 2012-2021.
As reported by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee of New York State, distracted driving is the leading contributing factor to motor vehicle crashes. Studies show that nearly 80% of accidents occur when the driver looks away from the road moments before the crash.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Distracted Driving Accidents?
The first step to prevent distracted driving accidents is to recognize the problem and eliminate the distractions. For instance, if you cannot avoid seeing a text message as soon as it comes then it is best to remove the temptation.
Other preventative measures can include designating a non-driver to be in charge of your phone, turning off the radio, and avoiding eating while driving. You can also install an app to help you place limitations on your cell phone use, spending, or other distractions.
Distracted driving is a serious problem with deadly consequences. By understanding the potential hazards of inattentive driving you can help to prevent distracted driving crashes.
Injured in a Distracted Driving Accident? Contact Our Office.
Were you or someone you love injured in a distracted driving accident? Contact our office to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will help you build your case and fight to get the money you deserve. It is important to act quickly. There are no fees unless we win.
